Ingredients
(Serves 6-8)
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1 lb frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
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2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or rotini, ziti)
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
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1 ½ cups water or beef broth (for extra flavor)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
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Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the dish.
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Add frozen meatballs on top (no thawing needed!).
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Pour marinara sauce and water/broth over everything.
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Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper.
Step 3: Cover & Bake
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Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil, stir gently, and check if pasta is tender.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Finish Baking
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Top with mozzarella & Parmesan.
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Bake uncovered for 5-10 mins until cheese melts & bubbles.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
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Let sit 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 900mg
- Protein: 22g
Keywords: Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe